Storm Sandy-Information for Filing Insurance Claims and Insurance Company Information

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

The days during and after a natural disaster can be confusing and stressful, especially for those who have suffered damages. To assist with the claims process, the DC Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking (DISB) listed below the contact information for the insurance companies that underwrite most of the homeowners and private passenger auto insurance business in the District of Columbia. If you do not see your company listed, and you do not have contact information for your insurer, call DISB at (202) 727-8000.

Before calling your insurance company, please have available your policy number and other relevant information to expedite processing your claim. If you can, take photographs or video of the damage before clean-up or repairs. After you’ve documented the damage, take steps to prevent further damage to your property (cover broken windows, leaking roofs and damaged walls). Do not have permanent repairs made until your insurance company has inspected the property and you have reached an agreement on the cost of repairs. Save all related receipts, including those from temporary repairs. Ask what documents, forms and data you need to file the claim. Keep a diary of conversations with the insurance company and your insurance agent, including names, times and dates of the calls or visits and contact details. Cooperate fully with the insurance company. Be certain to give the company all the information it needs. Incorrect or incomplete information may cause a delay in processing your claim.

If the first offer made by the insurance company does not meet your expectations, be prepared to negotiate. If there is a disagreement about the claim, ask the company for the specific language in the policy in question and determine why you and the company interpret your policy differently. If you believe you are being treated unfairly, contact DISB, the District of Columbia’s state insurance department, at (202) 727-8000.

Be advised that home repair fraud increases following a major storm. Protect your investment by getting more than one bid from contractors and requesting at least three references. Ask for proof of licenses, building permits, insurance and bonding. Record the contractor’s license plate number and driver’s license number, and then check for any complaints with the Better Business Bureau. Be wary of contractors who demand up-front payment for repairs. If the contractor needs money to buy supplies, go with the contractor and pay the supplier directly.